Once an industrial powerhouse dotted with factories and rail lines, Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward (O4W) has transformed into a food lover’s paradise, thanks in large part to the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail weaving through its core.
From the towering Ponce City Market—Atlanta’s answer to New York’s Chelsea Market—to the eclectic Krog Street Market, O4W’s dining scene blends Southern comfort with global flair.
Where To Eat in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward
Whether you’re chasing wood-fired pizzas, inventive tapas, or farm-fresh seafood, these spots capture the ward’s resilient spirit. We’ve rounded up our top picks, based on local buzz, chef-driven menus, and those unforgettable BeltLine strolls post-meal.
Grab your walking shoes—dinner here is as much about the journey as the feast.
Ponce City Market: The Ultimate Food Hall Playground
No O4W visit is complete without a detour to Ponce City Market, the neighborhood’s crown jewel at 675 Ponce de Leon Place NE. This adaptive-reuse masterpiece, housed in a former Sears warehouse, boasts nearly 20 eateries under one roof, making it ideal for indecisive groups or solo adventurers.
For a quick hit of Southern soul, head to H&F Burger Co. for grass-fed beef patties stacked with pimento cheese and bacon jam—crispy-edged perfection that locals swear by for under $15. Craving ramen on a chilly fall evening? Ton Ton Ramen & Yakitori delivers steamy bowls of tonkotsu pork broth with bouncy noodles and charred yakitori skewers, a welcome addition since its 2024 debut.
And don’t skip Biltong Bar, the U.S.’s first spot for South African street food, where air-dried beef strips (biltong) pair with peri-peri chicken and boozy milkshakes.
Pro tip: Hit the rooftop Skyline Park for skyline views and skyline-level people-watching while nursing a craft beer from Hop City.
Marcus Bar & Grille: Elevated Comfort with a Nod to History
For a sit-down experience that honors O4W’s roots, Marcus Bar & Grille at 874 Ralph McGill Blvd NE stands out as a beacon of refined Southern fare.
Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s outpost draws from Atlanta’s Black culinary heritage, with wood-fired dishes like smoked pork ribs glazed in peach habanero sauce and cornbread muffins slathered in honey butter.
The space—complete with lush greenery and a gleaming open kitchen—feels like a community hub, especially during weekend jazz brunches. Recent diners rave about the lamb chops, seared to juicy perfection and served with creamy mac ‘n’ cheese that could convert a vegetarian.
It’s upscale without the stuffiness, and with entrees around $30–$45, it’s worth the splurge for date nights or family gatherings.
Superica: Tex-Mex with a BeltLine Twist
Overlooking the BeltLine at 1600 North Ave NE, Superica channels Austin’s Ford Fry vibes into Atlanta’s backyard.
This casual powerhouse specializes in wood-grilled tacos—think barbacoa beef tucked into house-made tortillas with fiery salsa verde—and frozen margaritas that go down dangerously easy on a humid Georgia afternoon. The courtyard patio, strung with lights and shaded by oaks, is prime for sunset dinners, where the $16 queso fundido (oozing with chorizo) steals the show. It’s family-friendly yet trendy enough for Instagram, and with gluten-free options galore, it caters to all.
Fun fact: The restaurant’s commitment to local farms means your meal supports Georgia growers, adding a feel-good layer to every bite.
Staplehouse: Philanthropy on a Plate
Tucked on bustling Edgewood Avenue at 541 Edgewood Ave SE, Staplehouse isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a movement. Co-owned by the late Ryan Hidinger and his wife Jen, this gem donates a portion of proceeds to The Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit aiding food and beverage workers in crisis.
The menu evolves seasonally, but staples like the duck confit poutine (fries smothered in duck fat gravy and cheese curds) and charcuterie boards with house-cured salumi keep locals lining up.
The vibe? Intimate and artsy, with exposed brick walls and a wine list heavy on Georgia varietals. At $25–$40 per entree, it’s a delicious way to dine with purpose—perfect for those seeking more than just a meal.
Buena Vida Tapas Bar: Spanish Sun on the BeltLine
For a taste of Iberian sunshine, stroll to Buena Vida Tapas & Sol at 440 Flat Shoals Ave SE, right on the BeltLine.
Owned by Atlanta restaurateurs Adam Berlin and Juan S. Calle, this airy spot serves approachable small plates like patatas bravas (crispy potatoes in smoky aioli) and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp that could headline any feast). The BeltLine-facing patio buzzes on weekends, with pitchers of sangria flowing alongside $12–$18 plates.
Executive Chef Jaime Guzman’s menu nods to Southern Spain, incorporating local peaches into gazpacho for a peachy twist. It’s romantic, lively, and endlessly shareable—ideal for tapas-hopping with friends.
Ruby Chow’s and Yeppa & Co.: Noodling Around Global Flavors
Rounding out the list, Ruby Chow’s at 469 Flat Shoals Ave SE brings Cantonese cool to O4W with silky hand-pulled noodles in spicy dan dan sauce and crispy Peking duck wraps. The pink-hued interior, adorned with floral installations, feels like a serene escape amid the neighborhood’s energy. Nearby, Yeppa & Co. at the Junction Krog District (347 Boulevard SE) pairs vibey Italian with wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas— the cacio e pepe is a cheesy dream.
Both spots, fresh off 2025 buzz, highlight O4W’s growing Asian and Mediterranean scenes, with dishes under $20 that punch way above their weight.
Final Word
The Old Fourth Ward’s dining renaissance shows no signs of slowing, fueled by its walkable layout and commitment to diverse voices. As we head into holiday season, these spots offer everything from festive brunches to cozy fire-pit dinners.
Pro tip: Download the Atlanta Streetcar app for easy hops between Ponce and Edgewood—pair it with a post-dinner gelato stroll. What’s your O4W must-try? Drop me a line at cj@atlantafi.com. Hungry yet? The BeltLine awaits.